Trans States, GoJet, Executive Draw FAA Scrutiny

Alleged maintenance-related gaffes at Trans States Airlines, GoJet Airlines and Executive Airlines prompted the FAA to propose more than $3.1 million in civil penalties against the carriers in late June. The proposed fines against St. Louis-based Trans States Holdings subsidiaries TSA and GoJet totaled $2,476,075, while American Eagle unit Executive Airlines faces a $700,000 penalty.

The FAA said that Trans States operated two Embraer ERJ 145s and GoJet operated seven Bombardier CRJ700s on a total of 320 revenue flights while failing to comply with proper maintenance procedures and complete required maintenance recordkeeping. The FAA also alleges Trans States and GoJet used outdated manufacturers’ maintenance instructions to perform repairs; failed to connect a wing flap actuator to its torque tube, rendering the flaps inoperative; failed to document an inspection after severe turbulence damaged an aircraft; didn’t document and carry out proper repairs after aircraft warning systems identified problems; improperly repaired an engine oil leak; and failed to comply with minimum equipment list regulations.

San Juan, Puerto Rico-based Executive allegedly operated eight of its ATR 42 turboprops after failing to perform and document required, detailed visual inspections to detect possible cracks on the aileron center hinge bearing fittings. Executive operated the eight aircraft on 6,479 flights between the time of the incomplete earlier inspections and Sept. 26 and 27, 2008, when the company performed the proper inspections and procedures.